CREAMY DREAMY GNOCCHI DINNER – easymealstoprep

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted gnocchi – it was at a tiny Italian restaurant in my hometown, and the pillowy potato dumplings were swimming in a rich, creamy sauce. I was immediately hooked, and I’ve been experimenting with gnocchi recipes ever since. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Okay, let’s be honest: there are a lot of pasta recipes out there. But this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi? It’s special. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a big bowl and a good movie. It’s comfort food elevated. Here’s why I think you’ll fall head-over-heels for it:

• It’s incredibly flavorful: The earthy mushrooms, the fresh spinach, the creamy sauce – it’s a symphony of deliciousness.
• It’s surprisingly easy: Don’t let the fancy name fool you. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• It’s totally customizable: Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale, add some grilled chicken or sausage for extra protein, or throw in some roasted red peppers for a pop of color.
• It’s pure comfort food: Those pillowy gnocchi, coated in a rich and decadent sauce? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser: This is a dish that everyone will love, from picky eaters to sophisticated palates.

The Star Ingredients: Bringing the Magic Together

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the key players in this culinary masterpiece. Each ingredient brings something unique to the table, and understanding their role will help you create the most delicious dish possible.

• Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings are the heart and soul of the dish. I prefer store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling ambitious! Look for gnocchi that are plump and firm, not sticky or mushy.
• Mushrooms: I love using a mix of different mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile. Cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms are all great choices. Make sure to clean them thoroughly before cooking.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients to the dish. You can use baby spinach or regular spinach, just make sure to remove any tough stems.
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luscious, creamy texture. Don’t skimp on the cream – it’s worth it! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
• Garlic & Onion: The aromatic base of the sauce. They add depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory note and helps to thicken the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Butter: For sauteing and richness!
• Olive Oil: Extra Virgin Olive oil is preferred and adds a depth of flavor.

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi in no time.

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean and slice your mushrooms. If you’re using a variety, keep them separated as some cook faster than others.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Watch carefully not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want them to be nicely browned and caramelized for maximum flavor.
4. Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even wilting.
5. Add the Cream and Parmesan: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. The sauce should thicken slightly.
6. Cook the Gnocchi: While the sauce is simmering, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Typically, you’ll boil them in salted water until they float to the surface, which indicates they’re cooked through.
7. Combine and Serve: Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce. Toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. A little drizzle of olive oil adds a lovely finishing touch.

Success Tips for Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Want to guarantee a perfect Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi every time? Here are my top tips for success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If the pan is too crowded, the mushrooms will steam instead of brown properly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan has a superior flavor and melts beautifully.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: This is crucial! Taste the sauce before adding the gnocchi and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy and unpleasant. Cook them just until they float to the surface, then drain them immediately.
• Warm Your Serving Bowls: This is a simple trick that makes a big difference. Warming your serving bowls helps to keep the gnocchi warm for longer, so you can enjoy every bite.

Variations and Customizations: Making It Your Own

The beauty of this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a dish that’s perfectly tailored to your taste.

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the dish. Cook the protein separately and then add it to the skillet along with the gnocchi.
• Swap the Vegetables: Not a fan of spinach? Try kale, Swiss chard, or even some roasted red peppers. Get creative with your vegetable choices!
• Add a Touch of Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Use a Different Cheese: Instead of Parmesan cheese, try using Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a little bit of goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based gnocchi, dairy-free cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right side dishes. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Serve the gnocchi with some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are all great choices.
• Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a Caprese salad complement the flavors of the gnocchi perfectly.
• A Glass of Wine: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish.

Other Delicious Recipes to Explore

If you’re looking for more delicious and easy recipes, be sure to check out some of my other favorites. You might especially enjoy Creamy Zucchini Pasta Sauce for a lighter, veggie-packed option. Or, if you’re a fan of stuffed vegetables, try these Mushroom Ricotta Zucchini Boats. For a healthy, low-carb alternative, give Creamy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo a try! If you enjoy Gnocchi, try Creamy Asiago Chicken and Gnocchi for the ultimate comfort food pasta dish or even Chicken and Zucchini Pasta. I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Want to get ahead of the game? Here’s how to make this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi in advance and store any leftovers.

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the gnocchi according to package directions.
• Storage: Leftover Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The sauce may separate slightly after thawing, so you may need to add a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy texture.

Conclusion: Your Gnocchi Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it – my ultimate Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe! I truly believe that anyone can make this dish, and I hope you’re feeling inspired to give it a try. Remember to follow my success tips, experiment with different variations, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen. I can’t wait to hear about your gnocchi adventures!

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Amelia

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe delivers pillowy potato dumplings in a rich, decadent sauce, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s surprisingly easy to make in under 30 minutes and can be customized with different proteins and vegetables, making it a weeknight favorite for everyone.

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 8 ounces mixed mushrooms, sliced cremini, shiitake, oyster
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
• Optional: drizzle of olive oil for garnish

• Clean and slice the mushrooms. Keep different varieties separated if desired.

• In a large skillet or pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

• Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

• Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally.

• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. The sauce should thicken slightly.

• While the sauce is simmering, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Typically, you’ll boil them in salted water until they float to the surface.

• Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce.

• Toss gently to coat the gnocchi with the sauce.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. A little drizzle of olive oil adds a lovely finishing touch.

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking mushrooms to ensure proper browning. Taste and adjust seasoning before adding gnocchi. To make ahead, prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To add protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp.